holistic
Addressing the whole person or system rather than isolated parts
Examples
In a meeting
“We need a holistic approach to employee wellness that includes mental, physical, and financial health.”
Over coffee
“I prefer doctors who take a holistic view of health rather than just treating symptoms.”
Why this word
comprehensive
holistic emphasizes treating the whole interconnected system, comprehensive means thorough coverage of parts
complete
holistic stresses integration and interconnection of all aspects, complete means nothing is missing
overall
holistic implies viewing something as an integrated whole, overall is vague about interconnection
Usage tip
Use when emphasizing comprehensive, integrated approaches. Very common in wellness and healthcare contexts.
Etymology
Greek: holos (whole, entire)
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